Hockey type game board and system

ABSTRACT

A game board and system is provided for hockey-type play and shooting skill development. The board comprises one or more target holes configured to be substantially prismatic in shape and impact the ability of a puck to pass through depending on its orientation when it reaches a target hole opening. Netting is used beneath target holes to receive pucks. Legs are used to prop the board up at an angle for game play and folded or detached for board storage and transport. To enhance game play, and render the system modular and lightweight the game board system can integrate framing elements and constructed using a variety of materials such as metals, wood-based products, plastic, and fabric. In one configuration the game board system includes metal framing fitted with netting and attached to the underside of the game board to configure the target holes as miniature hockey nets.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the field of hockey type games andskill development, more particularly, shooting game boards and systemswith accessories.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Corn hole type game systems have had enduring appeal as recreationalpass times. While sport themes and different game rules have beenapplied to provide variations of the original corn hole game format,specialized adaptations to promote particular types of skill developmenthave been lacking.

In recent years, the recreational product market has grown toaccommodate the design of compact and portable hockey net/goal articlesand systems. Some of these, include a small footprint platform, andsuitably sized hockey net with a ramp leading up to the opening of thenet. Examples of such articles and systems are disclosed in U.S. Pat.No. 7,066,847, and products on the market branded under the labels PuckCatcher™, Saucer King™ and Sauce Kit™. Others include a platform with ahockey net over a hole for the puck to go into, such as Perfect Pass™.These articles and systems are generally designed in single targetformats and are not necessarily designed to encourage a particular formof skill development, such as a specific type of hockey shot technique.

A variation of a Skee ball or corn hole type game platform, Skee-Puck™includes an angled platform with several round holes which can be ofvarying sizes. The platform is covered by an enclosure structure to stopthe puck from being shot past the platform and a player shoots the puckat the different holes (targets) from a launch pad. This system isintended as a semi-permanent installation indoors, such as at an arcadeor in a basement.

It is desirable to provide for alternative, on the go (portable),hockey-type play game formats to maintain user engagement and promotedifferent kinds of hockey shot skill development.

To address these and other recreational user needs, a new portable, gameboard and system for hockey-type play is provided for in the presentdisclosure.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the invention to provide a portable game board andsystem with one or more target holes to promote the development ofhockey shot skills, such as the saucer pass, by integrating target holeconfigurations which impact (limit) the ways in which a puck-shapedobject can pass through the target holes.

More particularly, the present invention generally comprises an angledgame board, wherein the dimensions of the target hole(s), such as theshape and size, are configured to partially obstruct or impede thepassage of a puck-shaped object, depending on the orientation of thepuck-shaped object in the air just as it reaches the target hole(s). Thedesired shape and size of the target hole(s) can be obtained by the wayholes are formed in the game board and/or with the addition of otherstructures fitted to generally align with holes formed in the board.Game play is further enhanced by selecting configurations and usingstructures that mimic the appearance and form of hockey nets.

In one aspect there is provided a game board with top and bottom sides,two side walls and two end walls, comprising one or more target holesformed through the top and bottom sides, through which a puck-shapedobject can pass, and wherein at least one of the one or more targetholes has a substantially prismatic perimeter.

In one embodiment of the game board, the at least one of the one or moretarget holes having a substantially prismatic perimeter is furtherconfigured to impact the puck-shaped object's ability to pass throughsaid target hole when shot at the game board positioned for game play,depending on the puck-shaped object's orientation in the air just as itreaches the opening of said target hole at the top side of the board.

In another embodiment, the game board is constructed of one or morematerials selected from metal, wood-based material, plastic and fabric.

In still another embodiment, a set of legs is connected to the gameboard to prop the game board up at an angle off of a surface.

In yet another embodiment of the game board, all of the one or moretarget holes have a substantially prismatic perimeter.

In a further embodiment, one or more target holes is partiallyobstructed by a structure attached to the game board.

In yet another embodiment, the bottom side of the game board isconfigured to receive a framing system.

In a still another embodiment, the framing system defines part of theperimeter of one of the one or more target holes when connected to thegame board.

In one embodiment, netting is positioned beneath the bottom side of thegame board for receiving the puck-shaped object when it goes through oneof the one or more target holes.

In another embodiment, the game board is constructed of plastic using aninjection or blow molded process.

In a further embodiment, the game board is constructed of fabricmaterial forming all or a portion of the top and bottom sides of thegame board and connected to a frame structure integrated as part of thegame board.

In still a further embodiment, the frame structure forms the side wallsand end walls of the game board.

In another aspect there is provided a game board system comprising:

a) a game board with top and bottom sides, two side walls and two endwalls, comprising one or more target holes formed through the top andbottom sides, through which a puck-shaped object can pass, and whereinat least one of the one or more target holes has a substantiallyprismatic perimeter;b) a set of legs connected to the game board to prop the game board upat an angle off of a surface; andc) netting positioned beneath the bottom side of the game board forreceiving the puck-shaped object when it goes through one of the one ormore target holes.

In an embodiment of the system, the at least one of the one or moretarget holes having a substantially prismatic perimeter is furtherconfigured to impact the puck-shaped object's ability to pass throughsaid target hole when shot at the game board positioned for game play,depending on the puck-shaped object's orientation in the air just as itreaches the opening of said target hole at the top side of the gameboard.

In a further embodiment of the system, the game board is constructed ofone or more materials selected from metal, wood-based material, plasticand fabric.

In one embodiment of the system, all of the one or more target holeshave a substantially prismatic perimeter.

In another embodiment of the system, the opening of one or more of theone or more target holes is partially obstructed by a structure attachedto the game board.

In a further embodiment of the system, the bottom side of the game boardis configured to receive a framing system.

In still another embodiment of the system, the framing system definespart of the perimeter of one of the one or more target holes whenconnected to the game board.

In yet another embodiment of the system, the game board is constructedof plastic using an injection or blow molded process.

In still a further embodiment of the system, the game board isconstructed of fabric material forming all or a portion of the top andbottom sides of the game board and connected to a frame structureintegrated as part of the game board.

In another embodiment of the system, the frame structure forms the sidewalls and end walls of the game board.

In one embodiment, the game board system further comprises a launch padfrom which to shoot the puck-shaped object at the one or more targetholes

In another aspect there is provided a method of playing a hockey-typegame comprising the steps of:

a) propping up at an angle off of a surface, a game board with top andbottom sides, two side walls and two end walls, comprising one or moretarget holes formed through the top and bottom sides, through which apuck-shaped object can pass, and wherein at least one of the one or moretarget holes has a substantially prismatic perimeter; andb) shooting the puck-shaped object at the one or more target holes ofthe game board.

In one embodiment of the method, the at least one of the one or moretarget holes having a substantially prismatic perimeter if furtherconfigured to impact the puck-shaped object's ability to pass throughsaid target hole, when shot at the game board positioned for game play,depending on the puck-shaped object's orientation in the air just as itreaches said target hole at the top side of the game board.

In a further embodiment of the method, the game board is constructed ofone or more materials selected from metal, particle board, mediumdensity fiber, plastic and fabric.

In another embodiment of the method, a set of legs is connected to thegame board to prop the game board up at an angle off of a surface.

In yet another embodiment of the method, all of the one or more targetholes have a substantially prismatic perimeter.

In still another embodiment of the method, the opening of one or more ofthe one or more target holes is partially obstructed by a structureattached to the game board.

In a further embodiment of the method, the bottom side of the game boardis configured to receive a framing system.

In yet another embodiment of the method, the framing system defines partof the perimeter of one of one or more target holes when connected tothe game board.

In still a further embodiment of the method, netting is positionedbeneath the bottom side of the game board for receiving the puck-shapedobject when it goes through one of the one or more target holes.

In yet another embodiment of the method, the game board is constructedof plastic using an injection or blow molded process.

In one embodiment of the method, the game board is constructed of fabricmaterial forming all or a portion of the top and bottom sides of thegame board and connected to a frame structure integrated as part of thegame board.

In another embodiment of the method, the frame structure forms the sidewalls and end walls of the game board.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features of the invention will become more apparent inthe following detailed description in which reference is made to theappended drawings (Figures), briefly described as follows:

FIG. 1: Front view of a game board according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 2: Front side (isometric) view of a game board according to thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 3: Back side view of a game board according to the presentdisclosure with a pair of foldable legs in an extended state/position.

FIG. 4: Back side view of a game board according to the presentdisclosure with a pair of foldable legs in a collapsed state/position.

FIG. 5: Netting attached to the bottom side of game board according tothe present disclosure around the perimeter of a target hole.

FIG. 6: A puck-shaped object (soft puck) for use in game play with agame board according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 7: A game board system according to the present disclosureincluding metal framing attachable to the bottom side of the board andvarious accessories for game play and portability. Views A and Brepresent front (top) and back (bottom) side views, respectively.

FIG. 8: Components of the game board system shown in FIG. 7. View Arepresents the top side of the board. View B represents the bottom sideof the board. View C represents the netting and metal framing. View Drepresents the legs, pucks and puck casing.

FIG. 9: Various game ready and storage states of the game board systemshown in FIG. 7. View A represents a collapsed game board system forstorage and transport. View B represents a side view of View A. View Crepresents the launch pad (cover) detached from the game board. View Drepresents the legs of the game board system in an extended state. ViewE represents View D with the launch pad flipped open to uncover the topside of the game board.

FIG. 10: Alternative netting attachment means for the game board shownin FIGS. 1-4. View A illustrates a top view of a molded plastic insert(fitting) which fits into the board holes and functions as the nettingattachment means. View B illustrates a side view of the molded plasticinsert. View C illustrates netting attached to the molded plastic insertfitted into the board hole from the underside (back) of the board. ViewD illustrates netting attached to the molded plastic insert fitted intothe board hole from the top side (front) of the board.

FIG. 11: Exemplary illustrations of target hole configurations accordingto the disclosure of the game board herein, including prismatic andnon-prismatic variants.

FIG. 12: A front view of a game board system according to the presentdisclosure comprising a fabric canvass and framing structure toconstruct the game board.

FIG. 13: A side view of the game board system of FIG. 12 with legs forpropping up the game board off of a surface.

FIG. 14: A back side view of a game board system of FIG. 12 according tothe present disclosure. The view presented does not necessarilycorrespond to a leg angle as shown in FIG. 13 and has been drawn for thepurpose of being able to clearly represent all of the salient featuresof the game board system.

FIG. 15: The various parts of the framing structure, legs and relatedsupports for the game board system of FIG. 12.

FIG. 16: A net assembly for a game board constructed of fabric includingthe fitting for attaching netting to the underside of the board aroundthe perimeter of a target hole.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to hockey-type game boards and systems,which provide amusement and encourage hockey shot skill development bythe application of target hole configurations which impact the manner inwhich a puck-shaped object can pass through a target hole.

Various features of the invention will become apparent from thefollowing detailed description taken together with the illustrations inthe Figures. The design factors, construction and use of the game boardsand systems disclosed herein are described with reference to variousexamples representing embodiments which are not intended to limit thescope of the invention as described and claimed herein. The skilledtechnician in the field to which the invention pertains will appreciatethat there may be other variations, examples and embodiments of theinvention not disclosed herein that can be practiced according to theteachings of the present disclosure without departing from the scope andspirit of the invention.

Definitions

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill inthe art to which this invention belongs.

The use of the word “a” or “an” when used herein in conjunction with theterm “comprising” may mean “one,” but it is also consistent with themeaning of “one or more,” “at least one” and “one or more than one.”

As used herein, the terms “comprising,” “having,” “including” and“containing,” and grammatical variations thereof, are inclusive oropen-ended and do not exclude additional, unrecited elements and/ormethod steps. The term “consisting essentially of” when used herein inconnection with an apparatus, article, use or method, denotes thatadditional elements and/or method steps may be present, but that theseadditions do not materially affect the manner in which the recitedapparatus, article, method or use functions. The term “consisting of”when used herein in connection with an apparatus, article, use ormethod, excludes the presence of additional elements and/or methodsteps. An apparatus, article, use or method described herein ascomprising certain elements and/or steps may also, in certainembodiments consist essentially of those elements and/or steps, and inother embodiments consist of those elements and/or steps, whether or notthese embodiments are specifically referred to.

As used herein, the term “about” refers to an approximately +/−10%variation from a given value. It is to be understood that such avariation is always included in any given value provided herein, whetheror not it is specifically referred to.

The recitation of ranges herein is intended to convey both the rangesand individual values falling within the ranges, to the same place valueas the numerals used to denote the range, unless otherwise indicatedherein.

The use of any examples or exemplary language, e.g. “such as”,“exemplary embodiment”, and “for example” is intended to illustrate ordenote aspects, embodiments, variations, elements or features of theinvention and not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

As used herein, the terms “connected” and “attached” and grammaticalvariations thereof refer to any direct or indirect physical associationbetween elements or features of the apparatus (game board and game boardsystem) of the present disclosure. Accordingly, these terms may beunderstood to denote elements or features that are partly or completelycontained within one another, coupled, disposed on, joined together,etc., even if there are other elements or features intervening betweenthe elements or features described as being connected or attached. Forexample, netting attached to a game board according to the presentdisclosure may be attached directly to the underside of the game boardor to metal framing which is itself attached to the underside of thegame board.

As used herein, the terms, “hole” and “target hole” refer to the holeswhich are formed in a game board according to the present disclosure. Ahole may or may not be a target hole. For example, a hole can be formedin the game board which is then used and/or further configured to formone or more target holes for game play, to receive a game boardaccessory, or to receive a component or structure used to set up theboard for game play. When reference is made to a target hole, the holeis formed through the top and bottom sides of the board and issubstantially in a game ready state to function as a shooting target. Atarget hole may or may not be configured to impact the ability of apuck-shaped object to pass through it. Target holes can have variousconstructions and configurations as provided in the present disclosure.Moreover, a target hole can be adapted to provide for alternativeconfiguration of a target hole using the same game board.

As used herein, the term “perimeter” with reference to a hole or targethole is used to denote the edge of an opening of a hole or target hole.Where a hole or target hole is made through or manufactured into thedesign of a game board, the perimeter may also refer to the inner wallsor surface of a game board defining the space of the hole irrespectiveof whether said hole is or is not modified using additional componentsand structures to make the hole ready for game play as a target hole. Byextension the term “perimeter” may also be used herein to denote theshape of a space not necessarily defined in a physical sense by wallsand surfaces. In this way, the perimeter of a hole can be the perimeterof a hole or space within a hole. For example, a hole within a hole canbe created by a funnel that extends physically through a hole in thegame board, or can be understood as a sight line extension of a funnelresting on the top of a game board surface over a hole. In the lattercase, the perimeter (including the 3D space) of the hole will be definedin part by the perimeter of the hole in the board and perimeter of thefunnel resting over the hole, and will not have a complete set of wallor physical surface structures delineating its shape after a puck-shapedobject passes through the surface entry point of the target holeopening. Accordingly, the term “perimeter” can be understood to denotethe space through which a puck-shaped object must pass when goingthrough a hole of a game board as guided by structural features formingthe hole, or guiding the path of the puck-shaped object into and throughthe hole.

As used herein, the term, “substantially prismatic” with reference tothe perimeter of a hole is used to denote one of a number of possibleshapes for a hole or target hole (space), such as a square, rectangle,triangle, hexagon, rhombus and the like and can include shapes where oneor more of the corners of the prism are slightly rounded, or otherwisealtered by the insertion or attachment of structures to the hole of agame board.

It is contemplated that any embodiment of the game board and system,methods and uses disclosed herein can be implemented by one skilled inthe art, as is, or by making such variations or equivalents withoutdeparting from the scope and spirit of the invention.

GAME BOARD AND SYSTEM CONFIGURATIONS

The game board and system of the present disclosure may be configured tocomprise various component parts in order to be able to set up the boardfor game play and collapse the board into a more compact (e.g.flattened) format for portability and storage.

Game Board

The game board of the present disclosure comprises a board with one ormore holes formed through the top and bottom surfaces. To simulatehockey-type play one or more of the target holes of the game board willhave a substantially prismatic shape configuration (perimeter). Topromote hockey shot skill development, one or more of the target holesof the game board will be configured to impact the ability ofpuck-shaped object to go through it, depending on how the object is shotand arrives at the opening of a given target hole. To achieve suchconfigurations for target holes, the overall shape and dimensions of atarget hole will be factors. Other factors will be the presence ofimpediments or obstructions to the puck-shaped object's path to andthrough the (target) hole, positioned in and/or around the target holeperimeter. In this sense, certain physical impediments and/orobstructions can be understood to create modified or new target holeswithin an existing (target) hole by altering the perimeter of the hole(shape) through which the puck-shaped object must pass to result in asuccessful on target shot during game play.

To provide for a game board system according to the present disclosure,a set of legs can be attached (connected) to the underside (bottom sidesurface) and/or side walls of the board to provide a means for proppingup the board at an angle when in use. The legs can be supported by oneor more cross bars connecting the legs to the game board and/or eachother as shown in the FIGS. 3, 4, and 7 to 9.

The board can consist essentially of any shape desirable so long as itis amenable to be being propped up at an angle for game play using asuitable support means and remain stable when puck-shaped objects hitit.

In one embodiment, the game board has a generally rectangular shape withsubstantially prismatic holes, wherein each hole has the samedimensions. In a related embodiment, the dimensions of the game boardcan be about 85 cm in length (for the side walls), about 55 cm in width(for the end walls), and about 7 cm deep. The board could be wider ornarrower, or it could be rotated so the length is oriented horizontally(parallel), and the width is vertically oriented (perpendicular), to thesurface the game board is positioned on when in use (for game play). Thedimensions can be varied by about 20% and still provide for a boardsized to maintain engaging game play and ease of storage and transport.

Target Hole(s)

Target holes can have various constructions and configurations which canbe defined by, but not limited to, the dimensions (i.e. the openings andthree dimensional (3D) space) of the initial hole(s) made through thetop and bottom sides of the game board. To create target holes,structural elements can be attached the game board to partially obstructor change the shape or dimensions of the openings (perimeter) of thehole on the top side, and/or bottom side of the game board, or at theperimeter walls of a hole of the board. Structural elements can also beused to create optimal and/or sub-optimal paths for a puck-shaped objectto reach the opening of a target hole (see FIG. 1, FIG. 8 and FIG. 11for illustrative embodiments).

In one embodiment, the target holes formed into a game board aresubstantially prismatic (e.g. rectangular). In a related embodiment, thetarget holes have the same dimensions. In another related embodiment,the target holes have different dimensions. In still another relatedembodiment, all of the target holes have the same prismatic shape (asmay be defined by the perimeter). In another related embodiment, thetarget holes have different shapes as may be defined by the perimeter ofthe hole in the game board, or perimeter created by applying structuralelements (structures) to modify the perimeter of the hole made throughthe game board.

In a further related embodiment, the target holes are formed to looklike miniature (rectangular) goals and are each 9.3 cm in height, and20.8 cm in width. The rectangular target holes are not only designed tosimulate the shape of an actual hockey goal, but are also intended tocause the user to perform a proper saucer pass/shot making it morechallenging to get a puck through a target hole. The user must start therelease of the shot/pass off the heal of the blade of their stick inorder to have the puck hover through the air flat, while rotatingtowards to the goal, otherwise known as a saucer pass or shot. This is askillset that is developed and requires repetition in order to master.

In a further embodiment, one or more holes are formed through the gameboard, wherein at least one of the one or more holes is divided into oneor more target holes. The target holes may be configured using variousstructures, such as hole covers, guides, funnels, deflectors, inserts,as well as framing elements integrated into the game board or framingsystems attached to the underside of the board (see FIG. 7).

In another embodiment, the target holes can be formed by partiallycovering part of the holes using removable plates, or similarstructures. In an embodiment, a round hole can be partially covered witha plate structure, which converts or provides within the perimeter of around hole a substantially prismatic (target) hole. In this way, a gameboard with round holes used for a corn hole or golf type shooting gamecan be converted into a game board according to the present disclosureby reconfiguring the round holes to target holes which impact apuck-shaped object's ability to pass through it (based on thepuck-shaped object's orientation in the air just as it reaches theopening of said target hole at the top side of the board).

In still another embodiment structural (hole) inserts, such as dividersor other forms of similar impediments and obstructions can be used tochange the 3D configuration of the holes to form one or more targetholes.

In yet another embodiment, game play can be made more challenging byincorporating structures extending from the top side of the game board,at or near the perimeter of the target holes. Such structures serve asobstacles that impact the ability of puck-shaped object to reach a giventarget hole, depending on how the puck-shaped object it is shot at thetarget hole (i.e. the object's trajectory). The structural obstacles cantake on different forms, such as plates, fins, posts or otherstructures, or a tubular structure fitted around the perimeter of atarget hole. In FIG. 11 where such variations are illustrated, a hole 8of a game board can function as a target hole without modifications orelse be modified to create new target hole configurations 36 a, 36 b, 36c, 36 d using structures 40, 41, 42 and 37, respectively.

In FIG. 11D a round hole like those found on standard corn hole boardsand variations thereof is fitted with a prismatic plate structure 37which has a prismatic opening in it to convert such a standard corn holetype board game into a game board according to the present disclosure.

In a further embodiment, netting can be attached to the underside(bottom side) of the game board around the perimeter of each hole ortarget hole. The netting receives puck-shaped objects which pass throughthe (target) hole(s) of the game board. The netting can be directly orindirectly attached to the underside of the game board using pins,hooks, ring nails or screws. A string or fibre can be run through thenetting and threaded through the ring nails/screws (see FIG. 5). Othermeans for directly or indirectly connecting netting to the board canalso be applied using structures to which the netting is attached andwhich are then snapped, locked into, or otherwise fitted onto theunderside of the board, without having to use multiple hooks andnails/screws. For example, a mechanism comprising a plastic injectionmold that has channels in it so that the netting can be looped throughit is known in the art.

FIG. 10 illustrates a fitting 29, which can be constructed using asuitable plastic form adapted to fit different hole configurations. Thefitting 29 has a groove 30 around its perimeter defined by a wallportion 31 and two flange portions, one which rests on the top side ofthe board 32 and another which is fitted up against the bottom side ofthe board 33 when the insert is fitted into a hole of the board. Afurther wall portion 34 extends downward (perpendicular) to the flange33 away from the bottom side of the board when the insert is fitted intoa hole. This wall portion 34 includes holes 35 through which the nettingcan be threaded and thereby secured to the underside of the board.

A variation of such a netting attachment means adapted for a canvass(fabric) version of the game board according to the present disclosure(Example 3) is to take a strip of material with holes in it forreceiving netting, and stitch one edge of it to the under (bottom) sideof the canvass game board structure along the perimeter of a hole in thecanvass (see FIG. 16)

In another embodiment netting is attached to framing elements or aframing system, such as the metal framing (or a portion/segment thereof)as shown in FIG. 7 that substantially aligns with, or forms at leastpart of the perimeter of a target hole in the game board.

Game Board System

A game board system for hockey-type play and shooting skill developmentis provided including a game board according to the present disclosure,a means for stably propping up the game board, such as a set of legs andoptionally netting to capture puck-shaped objects shot through targetholes in the game board.

In one embodiment, a set of legs is attached to the bottom side, sidewalls and/or one or both of the end walls of the game board. The set oflegs can be a pair of legs connected proximal to one end of the gameboard relative to the other end of the game board. In a relatedembodiment, the leg length for a pair of legs positioned proximal to endwall 4 as shown in FIG. 4 is about 63.5 cm.

Alternatively, the set of legs can consist of two pairs of legs, eachpair with a different length, proximal to one end of the game board, inorder to prop up the game board at an angle off of a surface. In still afurther embodiment, a tripod leg system can be used to prop up the gameboard off of a surface. In still another embodiment, the legs height orangle relative to the surface the game board is propped on (when in use)can be varied using telescoping legs, or providing for notches in thelegs, which can receive cross support elements that attach to the boardand legs, in order to lock the legs in a certain position for game play.

To accommodate different type of surface topographies (e.g. unevenground terrains), and ensure the game board can be securely and stablyset up for use, additional features can be integrated in a game boardsystem. In one embodiment, the individual leg lengths can be adjustedusing a telescoping leg configuration. In another embodiment, a varietyof fittings can be connected to the free end of each leg (opposite tothe end connected to the game board) to either secure the legs into asurface, or have them rest more stably on a given surface. For example,a spike fitting can be used to pin a leg into the ground, or connectorscan be used to secure the free ends of the legs to a surface structure.For example, a cross bar can be used as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, whereconnectors 44 link the free ends of legs 10 using a bar/tube 39.

In a further embodiment, another board or plate structure can be usedinstead of a set of legs to prop up the game board at an angle relativeto a surface. The bottom side of the game board can be configured with agroove or other like feature to receive the end of such a board or platestructure at an angle.

A base (surface) structure (e.g. a flat surface or a base of a framingsystem) can be optionally provided, onto, or into which an end of thegame board and/or legs, or other board or plate structure can bereceived.

In one embodiment, netting is secured to the underside (bottom side) ofthe game board under one or more of the one or more target holes.Individual nets can be secured under each target hole or one large netcan be secured under all of the target holes. Alternatively, netting canbe provided on a separate framing assembly configured and positionedunder the game board so as to capture puck-shaped objects successfullyshot through a target hole, irrespective of the angle of passage of thepuck-shaped object through said target hole. For example, the net frameassembly could be taller at the end sitting under the higher end wall ofthe game board when propped up off a surface (e.g. the ground) for gameplay. Similarly, net framing assembly, can provide a cover over the gameboard can be used to contain puck-shaped objects, which do not gothrough a target hole so as to make the recovery of the puck-shapedobjects easy for players during game play.

In still another embodiment, the game board can be expanded modularly byconnecting game boards (e.g. panels) together to increase the availablenumber of holes available for creating target holes for game play. Boardpanels can be connected to one another using hinges, clips, rivets,interconnecting framing elements, or other means known in the art.

Framing

Various framing features made from a similar array of materials as thegame board can be used to construct the game board and game board systemof the present disclosure. A framing structure can be used to provideperipheral and internal frameworks for a game board (as shown in FIGS.12-15), or act as finishing elements as shown in FIGS. 1-3 around theedges of the sides of the game board. Framing supports and elements canbe used to delineate target holes, and position/secure nettingunderneath said holes. See, for example, the plastic inserts used forthe netting in FIG. 10 and frame segments of the framing system shown inFIGS. 7 and 8. Framing features can also be used to provide overallsupport and stability to a game board system. As contemplated herein,the legs of a game board system can be integrated into a framing systemor framing structure and thereby provide support, as well as facilitatethe positioning of a game board for game play.

In one embodiment the game board system comprises a framing system (e.g.made of wood, metal or plastic) attached to the bottom side of the gameboard. The framing system can serve several functions. It can providevarious forms of structural support for the board, netting and legs. Theframing system or segments within it, can also be used to define partof, or the entirety of the perimeter of a target hole within a holeprovided for in the game board. A third function is to provide a partialobstruction within a target hole to promote shooting skill development.The portion of the framing system used as an obstruction within a targethole can be configured with netting to create a miniature hockey goal.Off target shooting which results in a puck hitting framing elementsobstructing a target hole (e.g. made of metal) can simulate hitting ahockey goal frame/post.

In one embodiment, the framing system can be formed as a singlestructure with various functional portions or segments as shown in theFIGS. 7 and 8. In another embodiment the framing system can comprise anumber of separate portions or segments which can be individually orindependently fitted and connected to the underside of a game board.

Accessories

The game board system may also be provided with various accessories tofacilitate and enhance game play and the convenience of storing andtransporting the game board system. Optional accessories include pucks,a puck carrying case, a game board cover and a (puck shooting) launchpad.

In one embodiment, one or more puck-shaped objects are provided forshooting at the target holes of a game board according to the presentdisclosure. The puck-shaped object(s) can be standard hard rubber pucks,plastic pucks, soft pucks similar to bean bag toss articles (see FIG.6), or any combination of the foregoing.

In yet another embodiment, distinguishable sets of puck-shaped objectsare provided to facilitate competitive shooting play between two or moreplayers. The sets of puck-shaped objects may be distinguished usingdifferent colouring and markings.

In a further embodiment, the puck-shaped objects may be provided in acarrying case. The carrying case may be netting, a flexible textile bagor a rigid casing. In a related embodiment, the casing for storingpuck-shaped objects can be attached to the cross bar(s) of the pair oflegs provided with the game board system in such a manner so as tomaintain a compact footprint for the game board system for storage andtransport (see FIGS. 7B and 9B).

In still another embodiment, a launch pad for shooting the puck isprovided with the game board system. The launch pad can be provided as aseparate accessory, or be detachably connected to the game board. In anembodiment, the launch pad is attached by way of a hinge mechanism toone end of the game board. As shown in FIGS. 7 to 9, the height andwidth dimensions of the launch pad can correspond to that of the gameboard. When not in use, the launch pad can function as a cap or coverfor the top side of the game board to protect this surface from beingdamaged during storage and transport. By making the launch paddetachable, it can be positioned at a desired distance from the gameboard when propped up for use in order to play and develop shootingskills.

CONSTRUCTION OF GAME BOARD AND SYSTEM

The game board of the present disclosure can be constructed of standardmaterials used to make corn hole-type and other similar toss andshooting game boards, such as, but not limited to, wood based productssuch as particle board, medium density fiber (MDF) board, metals,plastic (e.g. using a blow/injection molding process) and fabrics, aswell as combinations and composites (e.g. wood-plastic composites) ofsaid materials. The plastic used can be polyethylene pellets heated andmelted in a blow-molding process. The board can also be mounted into alightweight (e.g. hollow) plastic or metal frame (e.g. made fromaluminum). When using fabric a number of different fabrics may besuitable, for example, provided they are sturdy enough to withstandrepeated hits from puck-shaped objects at high speeds, such as an Oxfordcanvass woven material.

In one embodiment, the game board is made of MDF board (e.g. 5 mm) andfinished around the edges with aluminum framing or flashing. In anotherembodiment the side walls of the game board extend beyond the thicknessof the game board between and including the top and bottom sides suchthat the underside of the board is recessed from the one end of each ofthe side walls as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4.

In another embodiment, the game board is a plastic, injected moldedboard/casing including indentations for fitting or mounting a relativelylight weight metal framing (e.g. hollow tubing made of steel). Thisconstruction reduces damage to the board from shots taken with pucksthat miss the target holes. An injection molded construction for thegame board also simulates the sound of hitting the metal that is oftenheard when hitting a hockey goal post with a puck.

In a further embodiment, the game board is made of fabric (e.g. canvass)secured to a frame structure (see FIGS. 12-15). The fabric is securedwith sufficient tension to create a substantially flat surface andexpose the holes therein according to the their intended shapes anddimensions. This embodiment can be constructed as a lightweight andportable game board and game board system. For example, the frame can bemade, assembled and disassembled from a set of plastic tubing andconnector pieces to link the tubing together to form the framestructure.

In still a further embodiment, the game board may be constructed to havedifferent game play regions made of different materials. For example,the center region of the game board with the single target hole labelledas 3G shown in FIG. 12 can be made of fabric attached to a framingstructure integrated into the rest of the game board made from awood-based or plastic material/product. The fabric portion can betensioned as desired using string/elastic elements attached to theframing structure and thereby provide an additional level of game playinterest for the differential manner in which a puck-shaped object mightbe deflected (bounce) off of the game board in said central region, ifnot on target with the 3G target hole when shot at the game board.

Other components of game board system, such as the legs can be made oflight weight metal such as aluminum, plastic or wood. Various supportingelements can also be included, such as cross bars, and other stabilizingfeatures appropriate to ensure that the game board can be reliablypropped up at a desired angle relative to a surface when in use (duringgame play). Such features will further assist to maintain game boardpositioning after being repeatedly struck by puck-shaped objects. Forgame board system portability, the legs can be constructed so as to bereadily removable (detached) from the game board or foldable (whileremaining attached to the game board) to be able to flatten the systemfor transport.

In one embodiment, a set of plastic legs is detachably connected to agame board frame structure and stabilized with plastic tubingfunctioning as a cross bar to connect the ends of the legs on a surfacebase, opposite from the ends connected to the game board.

Netting can be constructed using standard netting fibres made of nylonand other suitable materials known in the art.

Use of different puck-shaped objects can be considered with respect tothe durability of a given game board construction and in order to obtaina particular kind of shot trajectory, orientation through the airtowards a target hole and shooting result when the puck-shaped objecthits the top surface of the board. If, for example, the saucer pass/shotis done with a plastic or standard hard rubber puck, and done properly,the puck will either go straight in and through a target hole, ordeflect away from the board. If pucks hit the surface flat they mayslide down or up depending on their trajectory. When using a bean bag(soft) puck, a missed target hole may be more likely to result in thepuck landing on the surface (top side) of the board and sliding downinto, to the edge of or around a target hole to the bottom of the gameboard.

USE OF GAME BOARD AND SYSTEM

The game board and system of the present disclosure can be used forhockey-type play and hockey shot skill development. The method for usingthe game board and system comprises the steps of setting up the gameboard of the present disclosure at an angle and shooting a puck-shapedobject at one or more target holes. To make game play more engagingvarious adjustments can be made to the game board angle (off of, orrelative to the surface the game board is resting on for game play) andin the configuration of the target holes. Additionally, different gamerules can be designed to associate point scoring schemes withsuccessfully made shots on (target) goal.

The arrangement of target holes in the game board can be variedaccording to user preferences and game play design, such that the gamescoring system is correlated to the target holes on the board as part ofthe game instructions and directions. In one embodiment the game boardhas five target holes. In a related embodiment, each hole can have acertain point value listed below it, as shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 12.Lighting features (e.g. light emitting diodes (LED) with sensors) canalso be integrated into the game board and set to light according to howwell game play is executed by a player to simulate goal scoringexperiences in hockey-type play on ice

A game can be designed to challenge players by requiring the winningplayer to get a specified total number of goals/points to win the game.In addition to the configuration of target holes (e.g. shape, size), thenumber of target holes and point value amount associated with the targetholes could make game play more or less engaging. Having too many targetholes could make it less challenging, or more difficult to complete thegame depending on the point system applied. Having fewer holes requiresthe player to be accurate, and apply the skillset that can be developedor learned with practice.

In one embodiment the game board is set up at about a 35 degree anglerelative to the ground or surface it is resting on. In anotherembodiment the game board is set up at about a 45 degree angle relativeto the ground or surface it is resting on. In still other embodiments,the game board is set up an angle ranging between about 25 to about 60degrees relative to the ground or surface it is resting on. The gameboard can be set up at different angles to accommodate different levelsof shooting skill development and provide variety to the user'sexperience. For example, by propping up the game board at angles rangingbetween about 25 to about 60 degrees, the difficulty of the saucerpass/shot will change. If the board is more upright, this requires moreaccuracy, whereas when the board is less upright, the puck-shaped objectis more able to land on the board and slide into a target hole.

In another embodiment, the launch pad is placed within a few meters ofthe game board. Making a saucer pass shot from this distance requireskeeping the puck-shaped object at a lower height off the ground to reachthe target holes in an optimal orientation and pass through any one ofthem as the case may be. In another embodiment, the launch pad is placedmore than a few meters from the game board. Making a saucer pass shotfrom this distance requires a higher trajectory to reach the targetholes in the optimal orientation and pass through.

The following examples of a game board and system according to thepresent disclosure are set forth and described with reference to theFigures. It will be understood that these examples are intended todescribe illustrative embodiments of the game board and system and usesthereof and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in anyway.

EXAMPLES Example 1—Wood Product Game Board and System

With reference to FIGS. 1-5 and 10, an embodiment of the game boardprovided in the present disclosure includes a board 1 with top 2 andbottom 3 sides, and four side walls 4, 5, 6 and 7. The board can beset-up at an angle supported by a pair of folding legs 10 using thehinge and leg support bar system shown at features 13 a to 13 d. Thelegs are thereby supported when extended to prop up the game board forgame play, and can be readily collapsed to fit up against the bottomside of the game board for transport. Five holes 8 having the samedimensions are configured as target holes with substantially prismaticperimeters 11. The dimensions of the target holes are designed toencourage the use and development of saucer pass skills in order to geta puck-shaped object 21, such as the soft puck shown in FIG. 6, to passthrough the holes 8. In other words, the chances of the puck-shapedobject 21 getting through a target hole are higher if shot using asaucer pass technique where the puck moves through the air like a saucerin the orientation shown in FIG. 6. Netting 9 (for receiving pucks,which go through the target holes), is attached around the perimeters 11of the holes 8 using a threading string 20 and hooks or ring nails 12secured directly to the bottom (under) side 3 of the board 1 (FIG. 5).

Alternatively, the netting can be securely threaded through small holes35 and secured to the board by way of a grooved plastic insert 29 withflange portions 32, 33, which sit, respectively, against the top 2 andbottom 3 sides of the board when the insert 29 is fitted into a hole ofthe board (FIG. 10). The wall portion 31 defining the recessed part ofthe groove 30 of the insert 29 fits along and against the perimeter wall11 of a board hole.

The board shown in FIGS. 1 to 4 can be made of various rigid materialssuitable for constructing a relatively light weight board and includefinishes to protect the board from damage during game play andtransport. For example, a particle or fiber type board can be laminatedon the top 2 and bottom sides 3 and finished around the side walls 4, 5,6, and 7 using a frame or flashing made of metal or plastic, as the casemay be.

The top side 2 of the board can also comprise various markings in linewith the theme for game play (in this case hockey) and to display agoal/point scoring system for successfully shooting a puck-shaped object21 into each target hole 8.

Example 2—Plastic Game Board and System

In an embodiment of the game board system illustrated in FIGS. 7 to 9, aboard 1, including holes 8 a, 8 b and 8 c, is provided with netting 9for each hole, a pair of foldable legs 10, metal framing (system) 17(which can alternatively be constructed of plastic) to provide targetholes, pucks 21, a puck launching pad 14 and puck carrying case 22.

The board 1 can be blow/injection molded using suitable plasticmaterials to include three holes 8 a to 8 c and channel indentations 20on the bottom side 3 with fittings 19 for receiving and securing themetal framing 17, for example, using brackets and/or screws. The metalframing 17 is constructed as one continuous framework with distinctportions/segments, which provide different functions once attached tothe bottom side 3 of the board 1.

In FIGS. 7B and 8C the metal framing 17 has five prismatic formations 23a to 23 e with interconnecting supporting frame segments 24. Formations23 a, 23 b, 23 d and 23 e serve to partially define or section offtarget holes within holes 8 a and 8 c. The perimeter of each target holeis defined towards the center of holes 8 a and 8 c by one side of themetal framing formations 23 a, 23 b, 23 d and 23 e and on three sides bythe perimeter 11 of holes 8 a and 8 c. While the metal framingformations 23 a, 23 b, 23 d and 23 e substantially align with theperimeters 11 of holes 8 a and 8 c, they are positioned slightly off-setfrom the perimeters 11, such that three of the sides of each of themetal framing formations 23 a, 23 b, 23 d and 23 e partially obstruct(the openings of) holes 8 a and 8 c.

Similarly, metal framing formation 23 c partially obstructs the targethole defined by the perimeter 11 of hole 8 b on three sides by beingpositioned slightly offset from said perimeter.

A puck launch pad 14 is provided with the game board system. The launchpad 14 has top 15 and bottom 16 sides and can be attached at end 26 tothe end 5 of the board 1 using a detachable hinged mechanism 18 (seeFIG. 9C). When the board 1 is deployed for game play, the pair offolding legs 10, attached to the side walls of the board 1 proximal tothe bottom side 3, are extended so that the board 1 can rest on theground propped up an angle (see FIG. 9D). In this way the launch pad 14can be unfolded (see FIG. 9E) and removed to be set up at a suitabledistance from the board 1. Pucks 21 can be shot from the top surface 15of the launch pad 14 at the target holes formed in the board 1 asdescribed above.

When not in use, the launch pad 14 can be reattached to the end 5 of theboard 1 and articulated using the hinge mechanism 18 to cover the topside 2 of the board 1, thereby protecting the game play surface andproviding a convenient transport format for the game board system (seeFIGS. 9A and 9B). At end 25 of the launch pad 14 there is provided acoupling means 27 for securing the launch pad 14 to a correspondingcoupling means 28 near the other end 4 of the board 1.

An accessory puck carrying case 22 can be configured to attach to thecross bars connecting the pair of legs 10, as shown in FIG. 7B, toprovide a compact storage and transport solution for the game boardsystem.

Example 3—Fabric Game Board and System

In another embodiment, with reference to FIGS. 12 to 15, the game board1 is constructed of a fabric canvass essentially forming the top 2 andbottom 3 sides of the gaming board and framing structure, with frametubing components 39, 38, T-connector 43 and corner connector 44. Thecanvass is an Oxford canvass and comprises flaps, one on each of thefour sides, which can be folded onto themselves and stitched to formtunnels through which the frame tubing 39 and 38 can be passed through.Alternatively, the flaps can each be wrapped around said tubing andsecured using other means, such as Velcro strips or snap fittings. Frametubing 39 forms the end walls 4 and 5 of the game board and tubing 38forms the side walls 6 and 7 of the game board. Corner fittings(connectors) 44 allow frame tubing 39 and 38 to be connected to completethe framing structure for the game board.

The legs 10 of the game board system can be connected to the framingstructure to the bottom side 3 of the gaming board using T-connectors43. As shown in FIGS. 13 and 15, the T-connector 43 has a smallerdiameter on one end, opposite from where the framing structuring tubing38 is secured into the T-connector 43. This smaller diameter end matesinto the corner connector 44 in order to facilitate attaching the legsto the framing structure. If no T-connector 43 is used to assemble thegame board system with legs, tubing 38 can be inserted directly into acorner connector 44.

As shown in FIG. 13, the legs are integrated into the frame structure ata 90 degree angle relative to the game board. As a result, the gameboard is angled off of a resting surface at a 45 degree angle and thelegs are resting on said surface also at a 45 degree angle.

In this embodiment, the overall dimensions of the game board are 35inches long (high) and 21.5 inches wide. The tubing, connectors and legsare made of polyvinyl chloride plastic (PVC, a thermoplastic resin). Thelegs are 22.5 inches long and have a 1 inch diameter. The cross tubing39 is 19.75 inches long by 1 inch in diameter. The tubing 38 is longerthan tubing 39 and can range from 29.75 to 33.25 inches long, and has a1 inch diameter.

Further the dimensions of the corner connectors 44 are 2 inches inheight and width and have a 1.25 inch diameter. The dimensions of theT-connectors 43 are 3.5 inches long (having the ends which interconnectwith the frame tubing 38 and corner connectors 44. The end which mateswith the frame tubing has a 1.25 inch diameter and the end which matesinto the corner connector has a 1 inch diameter. The height of theT-connector 43 which includes the opening for receiving the leg is 2inches and has a 1.25 inch diameter.

Netting is attached under each target hole using a nylon material(fitting) with metal rivets (or grommets) to delineate holes throughwhich to thread the netting. As shown in FIG. 26, the fitting 29 hasmaterial strips 45 and holes 46. One side of the strips 45 is stitchedto the bottom side 3 of the game board canvass. Netting 9 is threadedthrough the holes 46.

The disclosures of all patents, patent applications, publications anddatabase entries referenced in this specification are herebyspecifically incorporated by reference in their entirety to the sameextent as if each such individual patent, patent application,publication and database entry were specifically and individuallyindicated to be incorporated by reference.

Although the invention has been described with reference to certainspecific embodiments, various modifications thereof will be apparent tothose skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope ofthe invention. All such modifications as would be apparent to oneskilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of thefollowing claims.

1. (canceled)
 2. (canceled)
 3. (canceled)
 4. (canceled)
 5. (canceled) 6.(canceled)
 7. (canceled)
 8. (canceled)
 9. (canceled)
 10. (canceled) 11.(canceled)
 12. (canceled)
 13. A game board system, comprising: a) a gameboard with top and bottom sides, two side walls and two end walls,comprising one or more target holes formed through the top and bottomsides, through which a puck-shaped object can pass, and wherein at leastone of the one or more target holes has a substantially prismaticperimeter; and b) a set of legs connected to the game board to prop thegame board up at an angle off of a surface; wherein the at least one ofthe one or more target holes having a substantially prismatic perimeteris further configured to impact the puck-shaped object's ability to passthrough said target hole when shot at the game board positioned for gameplay, depending on the puck-shaped object's orientation in the air justas it reaches the opening of said target hole at the top side of thegame board.
 14. (canceled)
 15. (canceled)
 16. The game board system ofclaim 13, wherein all of the one or more target holes have asubstantially prismatic perimeter.
 17. The game board system of claim13, wherein the opening of one or more of the one or more target holesis partially obstructed by a structure attached to the game board. 18.The game board system of claim 13, wherein the bottom side of the gameboard is configured to receive a framing system.
 19. The game boardsystem of claim 18, wherein the framing system defines part of theperimeter of one of the one or more target holes when connected to thegame board.
 20. The game board system of claim 19, wherein the gameboard is constructed of plastic using an injection or blow moldedprocess.
 21. The game board system of claim 13, wherein the game boardis constructed of fabric material forming all or a portion of the topand bottom sides of the game board and connected to a frame structureintegrated as part of the game board.
 22. (canceled)
 23. The game boardsystem of claim 13, further comprising a launch pad from which to shootthe puck-shaped object at the one or more target holes.
 24. A method ofplaying a hockey-type game comprising the steps of: a. propping up at anangle off of a surface, a game board with top and bottom sides, two sidewalls and two end walls, comprising one or more target holes formedthrough the top and bottom sides, through which a puck-shaped object canpass, and wherein at least one of the one or more target holes has asubstantially prismatic perimeter; and b. shooting the puck-shapedobject at the one or more target holes of the game board, wherein the atleast one of the one or more target holes haying a substantiallyprismatic perimeter is further configured to impact the puck-shapedobject's ability to pass through said target hole, when shot at the gameboard positioned for game play, depending on the puck-shaped object'sorientation in the air just as it reaches said target hole at the topside of the game board.
 25. (canceled)
 26. The method of claims 24,wherein the game board is constructed of one or more materials selectedfrom metal, particle board, medium density fiber, plastic and fabric.27. The method of claim 24, wherein a set of legs is connected to thegame board to prop the game board up at an angle off of a surface. 28.The method of claim 24, wherein all of the one or more target holes havea substantially prismatic perimeter.
 29. The method of claim 24, whereinthe opening of one or more of the one or more target holes is partiallyobstructed by a structure attached to the game board.
 30. The method ofclaim 24, wherein the bottom side of the game board is configured toreceive a framing system.
 31. The method of claim 30, wherein theframing system defines part of the perimeter of one of one or moretarget holes when connected to the game board.
 32. The method of claim24, wherein netting is positioned beneath the bottom side of the gameboard for receiving the puck-shaped object when it goes through one ofthe one or more target holes.
 33. The method of claim 32, wherein thegame board is constructed of plastic using an injection or blow moldedprocess.
 34. The method of claim 24, wherein the game board isconstructed of fabric material forming all or a portion of the top andbottom sides of the game board and connected to a frame structureintegrated as part of the game board.
 35. (canceled)
 36. The game boardsystem of claim 13, further comprising netting positioned beneath thebottom side of the game board for receiving the puck-shaped object whenit goes through one of the one or more target holes.